Wrap around walking aid

ABSTRACT

A walking aid that assists a user in walking in an upright position. The walking aid may include a rear lower frame structure, a front lower frame structure, a first front wheel coupled to a first front lower frame member, a second front wheel coupled to a second front lower frame member, a first rear wheel coupled to the first rear lower frame member, a second rear wheel coupled to the second rear lower frame member, an upper frame structure comprising a first upper frame member, a second upper frame member, a first forearm support, and a second forearm support, a first pivot and latch mechanism pivotally coupling the first upper frame member and the first rear lower frame member together, and a second pivot and latch mechanism pivotally coupling the second upper frame member and the second rear lower frame member together.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/358,026 filed Mar. 19, 2019, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,675,207,which application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S.Provisional Application 62/650,914 filed Mar. 30, 2018 and titled “WrapAround Walking Aid”. application Ser. No. 16/358,026 is also acontinuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/582,207, filed Apr. 28, 2017, now U.S. Pat. No. 10,292,893, andentitled “WRAP AROUND WALKING AID”. U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/582,207 is a continuation-in-part application of InternationalApplication PCT/US2015/048073, entitled “Wrap Around Walking Aid,” filedon Sep. 2, 2015, which claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 14/532,448, entitled “Wrap Around Walking Aid,”filed Nov. 4, 2014, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,314,395. All of theaforementioned applications are incorporated by reference in theirentireties.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to walking aids that assist those withmobility difficulties, and, more particularly, upright walking aids thatwrap around a user's body.

BACKGROUND

Prior to embodiments of the disclosed invention, conventional walkerscaused people to have a bent forward low back and neck in extensionposture. This caused neck and back pain. They also had break handlesthat could cause the wrist to be bent in an abnormal way that can couldwrist and elbow pain. Conventional walkers also inhibited a normal gaitpattern. Embodiments of the disclosed invention solve these problems.Conventional walkers' forward leaning posture has been shown tocontribute to falls. With a more upright posture along with the forearmsupport of this embodiment this should reduce this problem.

SUM MARY

A wrap around walking aid is configured to assist a human user inwalking. The wrap around walking aid can include a first rear lowerframe and a first front lower frame mechanically coupled to a firstupper frame. At least one first fixed front wheel can be mechanicallycoupled to the first front lower frame. At least one first castor rearwheel can be mechanically coupled to the first rear lower frame. A backrest can be connected to the first rear lower frame. A second rear lowerframe and a second front lower frame can be mechanically coupled to asecond upper frame. The second rear lower frame can be furthermechanically coupled to the back rest. At least one second fixed frontwheel can be mechanically coupled to the second front lower frame. Atleast one second castor rear wheel can be mechanically coupled to thesecond rear lower frame. The at least one first castor rear wheel, theat least one second castor rear wheel, the at least one first fixedfront wheel and the at least one second fixed front wheel can enable aturn radius while the human user is walking forward.

In some embodiments, a first folding point can be arranged between thefirst front lower frame and the first rear lower frame. The firstfolding point can be configured to permit the first front lower frame tofold upon the first rear lower frame. A second folding point can bearranged between the second front lower frame and the second rear lowerframe. The second folding point can be configured to permit the secondfront lower frame to fold upon the second rear lower frame.

In some embodiments, at least one first strut can be connected to thefirst rear lower frame and the first front lower frame. The at least onefirst strut can be configured to limit the first front lower framemoving away from the first rear lower frame. At least one second strutcan be connected to the second rear lower frame and the second frontlower frame. The at least one second strut can be configured to limitthe second front lower frame moving away from the second rear lowerframe.

In some embodiments, a seat rest can be mechanically coupled to thefirst front lower frame and the second front lower frame. A seat pivotcan be attached to a seat and the back rest. Rotating the seat from theseat pivot can cause the seat to rest upon the seat rest.

In some embodiments, the first upper frame can further comprise a firsttelescoping segment, configured to extend from within the first rearlower frame and further configured to be tightened into place by a firstheight adjustment. The first telescoping segment can be on a firsttelescoping axis. A first forearm support segment can be joined to thefirst telescoping segment. The first forearm support segment can extendon a first forearm axis. Measured from the first telescoping segment,the first forearm support segment can be arranged at a first obtuseangle that is greater than 90 degrees. A first handle segment can bejoined to the first forearm support segment.

In some embodiments, a first handle can be mechanically coupled to thefirst handle segment. A first hand brake can be mechanically coupled tothe first handle. A first brake cable can be connected to the first handbrake and the at least one first fixed front wheel. Squeezing the firsthand brake can engage the first brake cable to stop motion of the atleast one first fixed front wheel. In some embodiments, a first forearmrest can be mechanically coupled to the first forearm support segment.

In some embodiments, the second upper frame can further comprise asecond telescoping segment, configured to extend from within the secondrear lower frame and further configured to be tightened into place by asecond height adjustment. The second telescoping segment can be on asecond telescoping axis. A second forearm support segment can be joinedto the second telescoping segment. The second forearm support segmentcan extend on a second forearm axis. Measured from the secondtelescoping segment, the second forearm support segment can be arrangedat a second obtuse angle that is greater than 90 degrees. A secondhandle segment can be joined to the second forearm support segment.

In some embodiments, a second handle can be mechanically coupled to thesecond handle segment. A second hand brake can be mechanically coupledto the second handle. A second brake cable can be connected to thesecond hand brake and the at least one second fixed front wheel.Squeezing the second hand brake can engage the second brake cable tostop motion of the at least one second fixed front wheel. In someembodiments, a second forearm rest can be mechanically coupled to thesecond forearm support segment.

Aspects of the present disclosure may involve a wraparound walking aidthat assists a user in walking in an upright position. The wrap aroundwalking aid may include: a rear lower frame structure including firstand second rear lower frame members; a front lower frame structureincluding first and second front lower frame members, the first frontlower frame member coupled to the first rear lower frame member, thesecond front lower frame member coupled to the second rear lower framemember; a first front wheel coupled to the first front lower framemember; a second front wheel coupled to the second front lower framemember; a first rear wheel coupled to the first rear lower frame member;a second rear wheel coupled to the second rear lower frame member; anupper frame structure including a first upper frame member, a secondupper frame member, a first forearm support coupled to the first upperframe member, a second forearm support coupled to the second upper framemember, a first handle joined with the first upper frame member, and asecond handle joined with the second upper frame member, the first upperframe member being adjustably coupled to the first rear lower framemember along a first length of the first upper frame member, the secondupper frame member being adjustably coupled to the second rear lowerframe member along a second length of the second upper frame member; anda back rest coupled to the rear lower frame structure and extendingbetween the first and second rear lower frame members.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further include aseat operably coupled to and pivotal relative to the rear lower framestructure so as to be pivotally positioned in a seated position or astowed position.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further include aseat rest coupled between the first and second front lower framemembers, the seat rest supporting the seat when the seat may be in theseated position.

In certain instances, the upper frame structure further includes firstand second brakes, the first brake joined with the first upper framemember near the first handle, the second brake joined with the secondupper frame member near the second handle.

In certain instances, the first upper frame member may be adjustablycoupled to the first rear lower frame member along the first length ofthe first upper frame member via a first telescoping connection, thesecond upper frame member may be adjustably coupled to the second rearlower frame member along the second length of the second upper framemember via a second telescoping connection.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further includefirst and second folding joints, the first folding joint joining thefirst front lower frame member and the first rear lower frame member,the second folding joint joining the second front lower frame member andthe second rear lower frame member.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further includefirst and second collapsible struts, the first collapsible strutcoupling the first front lower frame member and the first rear lowerframe member, the second collapsible strut coupling the second frontlower frame member and the second rear lower frame member.

Aspects of the present disclosure may involve a wraparound walking aidthat assists a user in walking in an upright position. The wrap aroundwalking aid may include: a rear lower frame structure including firstand second rear lower frame members; a front lower frame structureincluding first and second front lower frame members, the first frontlower frame member coupled to the first rear lower frame member, thesecond front lower frame member coupled to the second rear lower framemember; a first front wheel coupled to the first front lower framemember; a second front wheel coupled to the second front lower framemember; a first rear wheel coupled to the first rear lower frame member;a second rear wheel coupled to the second rear lower frame member; anupper frame structure including a first upper frame member, a secondupper frame member, a first forearm support coupled to the first upperframe member, a second forearm support coupled to the second upper framemember, a first handle joined with the first upper frame member, and asecond handle joined with the second upper frame member, the first upperframe member coupled to the first rear lower frame member, the secondupper frame member being adjustably coupled to the second rear lowerframe member; a back rest coupled to the rear lower frame structure andextending between the first and second rear lower frame members; and aseat operably coupled to and pivotal relative to the rear lower framestructure so as to be pivotally positioned in a seated position or astowed position.

In certain instances, the first upper frame member may be adjustablerelative to the first rear lower frame member, and the second upperframe member may be adjustable relative to the second rear lower framemember so as to increase or decrease a distance between the upper framestructure and the seat.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further include aseat rest coupled between the first and second front lower framemembers, the seat rest supporting the seat when the seat may be in theseated position.

In certain instances, the upper frame structure further includes firstand second brakes, the first brake joined with the first upper framemember near the first handle, the second brake joined with the secondupper frame member near the second handle.

In certain instances, the first and second front wheels may be fixedwheels, and the first and second rear wheels may be castor wheels.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further includefirst and second folding joints, the first folding joint joining thefirst front lower frame member and the first rear lower frame member,the second folding joint joining the second front lower frame member andthe second rear lower frame member.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further includefirst and second collapsible struts, the first collapsible strutcoupling the first front lower frame member and the first rear lowerframe member, the second collapsible strut coupling the second frontlower frame member and the second rear lower frame member.

Aspects of the present disclosure may involve a wraparound walking aidthat assists a user in walking in an upright position. The wrap aroundwalking aid may include: a rear lower frame structure including firstand second rear lower frame members; a front lower frame structureincluding a first front lower frame member, a second front lower framemember, and a seat rest coupled to and extending between the first andsecond front lower frame members, the first front lower frame membercoupled to the first rear lower frame member at a first folding joint,the second front lower frame member coupled to the second rear lowerframe member at a second folding joint; a first front wheel coupled tothe first front lower frame member; a second front wheel coupled to thesecond front lower frame member; a first rear wheel coupled to the firstrear lower frame member; a second rear wheel coupled to the second rearlower frame member; and an upper frame structure including a first upperframe member, a second upper frame member, a first forearm supportcoupled to the first upper frame member, a second forearm supportcoupled to the second upper frame member, a first handle joined with thefirst upper frame member, and a second handle joined with the secondupper frame member, the first upper frame member coupled to the firstrear lower frame member, the second upper frame member being adjustablycoupled to the second rear lower frame member, wherein the rear lowerframe structure and the front lower frame structure may be foldablerelative to each other about the first and second folding joints suchthat the first and second front wheels may be positioned closer to thefirst and second rear wheels in a folded state than when the rear lowerframe structure and the front lower frame structure may be in anunfolded state.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further include aback rest coupled to the rear lower frame structure and extendingbetween the first and second rear lower frame members.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further include aseat operably coupled to and pivotal relative to the rear lower framestructure so as to be pivotally positioned in a seated position or astowed position, the seat rest supporting the seat when the seat may bein the seated position.

In certain instances, the wrap around walking aid may further includefirst and second collapsible struts, the first collapsible strutcoupling the first front lower frame member and the first rear lowerframe member, the second collapsible strut coupling the second frontlower frame member and the second rear lower frame member.

In certain instances, the first upper frame member may be adjustablerelative to the first rear lower frame member, and the second upperframe member may be adjustable relative to the second rear lower framemember so as to increase or decrease a distance between the upper framestructure and the seat.

In certain instances, the first and second front wheels may be fixedwheels, and the first and second rear wheels may be castor wheels.

Aspects of the present disclosure may involve a wraparound walking aidthat assists a user in walking in an upright position. The wrap aroundwalking aid may include: a rear lower frame structure including firstand second rear lower frame members; a front lower frame structureincluding first and second front lower frame members, the first frontlower frame member coupled to the first rear lower frame member, thesecond front lower frame member coupled to the second rear lower framemember; a first front wheel coupled to the first front lower framemember; a second front wheel coupled to the second front lower framemember; a first rear wheel coupled to the first rear lower frame member;a second rear wheel coupled to the second rear lower frame member; anupper frame structure including a first upper frame member, a secondupper frame member, a first forearm support coupled to the first upperframe member, a second forearm support coupled to the second upper framemember, a first handle joined with the first upper frame member, and asecond handle joined with the second upper frame member, the first upperframe member being adjustably coupled to the first rear lower framemember along a first length of the first upper frame member, the secondupper frame member being adjustably coupled to the second rear lowerframe member along a second length of the second upper frame member, thefirst upper frame member being rotatable relative to the first rearlower frame member so as to be positionable in a first plurality oforientations relative to the first rear lower frame member, the secondupper frame member being rotatable relative to the second rear lowerframe member so as to be positionable in a second plurality oforientations relative to the second rear lower frame member; and a backrest coupled to the rear lower frame structure and extending between thefirst and second rear lower frame members.

In certain instances, the first plurality of orientations includes afirst forward orientation where the back rest is configured to bepositioned behind the legs of the user, and a first reverse orientationwhere the back rest is configured to be positioned in front of the legsof the user, where the first upper frame member is oriented generallyone hundred eighty degrees between the first forward orientation and thefirst reverse orientation.

In certain instances, the second plurality of orientations includes asecond forward orientation where the back rest is configured to bepositioned behind the legs of the user, and a second reverse orientationwhere the back rest is configured to be positioned in front of the legsof the user, where the second upper frame member is oriented generallyone hundred eighty degrees between the second forward orientation andthe second reverse orientation.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

The detailed description of some embodiments of the invention is madebelow with reference to the accompanying figures, wherein like numeralsrepresent corresponding parts of the figures.

FIG. 1 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of the invention inuse.

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view showing an embodiment of the inventionused in a seating mode.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of an embodiment of the invention with a user.

FIG. 5 is a side elevation view showing an embodiment of the inventionin a storage mode.

FIG. 6 is a front isometric view of a walking aid.

FIG. 7 is a front exploded-isometric view of the walking aid of FIG. 6.

FIG. 8 is a side view of the walking aid of FIG. 6, where an oppositeside view is the same or substantially similar.

FIG. 9 is a top view of the walking aid of FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the walking aid of FIG. 6.

FIG. 11 is a front isometric view of the walking aid of FIG. 6 with theseat pivoted upwards and the upper frame structure rotated one hundredeighty degrees from a forward orientation to a rearward orientation.

FIG. 12 is a front isometric view of the walking aid of FIG. 6 in afolded or stowed position.

FIGS. 13A and 13B are front isometric views of a walking aid in a firstorientation, and a second orientation, respectively.

FIGS. 14A and 14B are front and rear close-up isometric views,respectively, of a front wheel of the walking aid including the rollspeed control assembly.

FIGS. 14C and 14D are front and exploded views, respectively, of thefront wheel of the walking aid including the roll speed controlassembly.

FIG. 15A is a side view of a first pivot mechanism coupled with a firstupper arm assembly, which is shown semi-transparent.

FIG. 15B is a pair of exploded side views of the first pivot mechanismwith the first upper arm assembly shown semi-transparent.

FIG. 15C is an isometric close-up view of the first pivot assembly withthe upper end of the first rear lower frame member shownsemi-transparent, and with the pin received within the tubular pinreceptacle.

FIG. 15D is an isometric close-up view of the first pivot assemblydisengaged with a tubular pin receptacle coupled to the upper end of thefirst rear lower frame member.

FIG. 15E is a side view of the first pivot assembly with the first upperarm assembly shown semi-transparent in order to see the pin and springpositioned therein.

FIG. 15F is a side view, opposite that of FIG. 15E, of the first pivotassembly with the first upper arm assembly shown semi-transparent inorder to see the pin and spring positioned therein.

FIG. 15G is an isometric close-up view of the first pivot assembly withthe upper end of the first rear lower frame member shownsemi-transparent, and with the pin compressed against the spring so asto free the pin from the tubular pin receptacle.

FIG. 16 is an isometric back view of the walking aid in the foldedorientation.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

By way of example, and referring to FIG. 1, one embodiment ofwrap-around walking aid 10 further comprises first rear lower frame 11Aand first front lower frame 12A mechanically coupled to first upperframe 13A. First front lower frame 12A is further mechanically coupledto at least one first fixed front wheel 14A. First rear lower frame 11Ais further mechanically coupled to at least one first castor rear wheel16A. First front lower frame 12A is joined to first rear lower frame 11Aat first folding point 18 which is configured to permit first frontlower frame 12A to fold upon first rear lower frame 11A as shown in FIG.5. First rear lower frame 11A is further connected to first front lowerframe 12A with at least one first strut 20A. The at least one firststrut 20A limits the distance the first front lower frame 12A can moveaway from first rear lower frame 11A.

First front lower frame 12A is mechanically coupled to seat rest 22which partially extends between first front lower frame 12A and firstrear lower frame 11A. Seat 24 and back rest 26 are attached to seatpivot 28. Back rest 26 is connected to first rear lower frame 11A.

First upper frame 13A has three segments, a first telescoping segment15A that extends from first rear lower frame 11A and can be tightenedinto place by first height adjustment 30A. In some embodiments, thiscould be a quick release height adjustment. The first telescopingsegment 15A bends into the first forearm support segment 17A. The firstforearm support segment 17A extends on a first forearm axis Ax1 whereasthe first telescoping segment 15A is on a first telescoping axis Ay1.Measured from the first telescoping segment 15A the first forearmsegment 17A is arranged at a first obtuse angle θ1 that is greater than90 degrees. First obtuse angle θ1 brings the torso of a human user backslightly to create a more upright posture reducing neck and back pain.

The first forearm support segment is mechanically coupled to firstforearm rest 32A. The first forearm support segment bends into a firsthandle segment. The first handle segment is mechanically coupled tofirst handle 34A. First handle 34A is further mechanically coupled tofirst hand brake 36A. First hand brake 36A can be squeezed toward firsthandle 34A to engage first brake cable 38A. First brake cable 38A ismechanically coupled to at least one first fixed front wheel 14A.

FIG. 3 illustrates that some parts can exist in multiple quantities. Forinstance, one embodiment of wrap-around walking aid 10 further comprisessecond rear lower frame 11B and second front lower frame 12Bmechanically coupled to second upper frame 13B. Second front lower frame12B is further mechanically coupled to at least one second fixed frontwheel 14B. Second rear lower frame 11B is further mechanically coupledto at least one second castor rear wheel 16B. Second front lower frame12B is joined to second rear lower frame 11B at second folding point 18Bwhich is configured to permit second front lower frame 12B to fold uponsecond rear lower frame 11B as shown in FIG. 5. Second rear lower frame11B is further connected to second front lower frame 12B with at leastone second strut 20B. The at least one second struts 20B limits thedistance the second front lower frame 12B can move away from second rearlower frame 11B.

Second front lower frame 12B is mechanically coupled to seat rest 22which partially extends between second front lower frame 12B and secondrear lower frame 11B. Seat 24 and back rest 26 are attached to seatpivot 28. Back rest 26 is connected to second rear lower frame 11B. Notethat contrary to conventional walkers, as shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4,there is no support member forward of seat 24 when deployed. Thisremoves a common problem in conventional walkers—the human user banginglegs and knees on forward supports.

Second upper frame 13B has three segments, a second telescoping segment15B that extends from second rear lower frame 11B and can be tightenedinto place by second height adjustment 30B. In some embodiments, thiscould be a quick release height adjustment. The second telescopingsegment 15B bends into the second forearm support segment 17B. Thesecond forearm support segment 17B extends on a second forearm axiswhereas the second telescoping segment 15B is on a second telescopingaxis. Measured from the second telescoping segment the second forearmsegment is arranged at a second obtuse angle that is greater than 90degrees. The second obtuse angle brings the torso of a human user backslightly to create a more upright posture reducing neck and back pain.

The second forearm support segment is mechanically coupled to secondforearm rest 32B. The second forearm support segment bends into a secondhandle segment. The second handle segment is mechanically coupled tosecond handle 34B. Second handle 34B is further mechanically coupled tosecond hand brake 36B. Second hand brake 36B can be squeezed towardsecond handle 34B to engage second brake cable 38B. Second brake cable38B is mechanically coupled to at least one second fixed front wheel14B.

Further, as shown in FIG. 4, wrap-around walking aid 10 can be scaled toaccommodate any size human user. The human user's nose is approximatelyin the position of center of rotation 42 of at least one first castorrear wheel 16A and at least one second castor rear wheel 16B creatingturn radius 40. This enables a user to easily turn wrap-around walkingaid 10 while moving forward. Turn radius 40 is very tight, in some casesas wide as wrap-around walking aid 10.

Reference is made to FIGS. 6-10, which depict another embodiment of awalking aid 100. In particular, FIGS. 6-10 depict, respectively, anisometric front view of the walking aid 100, a front isometric-explodedview of the walking aid 100, a first side view of the walking aid 100, atop view of the walking aid 100, and a bottom view of the walking aid100. The walking aid 100 may be used in the same manner as the previousdescribed walking aid and may include the same or different components.The walking aid 100 may be considered a wraparound walking aid becausethe structure of the walking aid 100 wraps around the back of the userwhen the upper frame structure is oriented in a forward facing position.The walking aid 100 may also wrap around the front of the user when theupper frame structure is oriented in a rearward, or opposite facing,position. In the forward facing position, as shown FIGS. 1 and 6, amongothers, the area in front of the user's body is open or clear fromobstruction by the structure of the walking aid 100. Conversely, in therearward, or opposite facing, position, as seen in FIG. 11, the areabehind the user's body is open or clear from obstruction by thestructure of the walking aid 100. In the forward facing position, theuser may walk and then sit without turning their body relative to thewalking aid 100. In the rearward facing position, the user may walk andthen turn one hundred eighty degrees before sitting on the seat of thewalking aid 100.

As seen in FIG. 6, which shows the walking aid 100 with the seat in alowered, down, or seated position, the walking aid 100 includes a rearlower frame structure 102, a front lower frame structure 104, a seat106, and an upper frame structure 108. The rear lower frame structure102 may include a first rear lower frame member 110, a second rear lowerframe member 112, and a rear seat support member 114 coupled between thefirst and second lower frame members 110, 112. A lower end 116 of thefirst rear lower frame member 110 is rotatably coupled with a first rearwheel 118, which may be a wheel that freely rotates (e.g., cator wheel),as previously described herein. A lower end 120 of the second rear lowerframe member 112 is rotatably coupled with a second rear wheel 122,which may be a wheel that freely rotates (e.g., castor wheel), aspreviously described herein. An upper end 124 of the first rear lowerframe member 110 includes a first tubular member 126 includingvertically spaced through-holes 128 therein. The first tubular member126 is vertically oriented with respect to the floor surface the walkingaid 100 is used on, and includes a longitudinal axis extending through alumen of the member 126, where the longitudinal axis is generallyperpendicular to the floor surface. A first linear section 150 of thefirst rear lower frame member 110 connects the lower end 116 and theupper end 124. An upper end 130 of the second rear lower frame member112 includes a second tubular member 132 including vertically spacedthrough-holes 134 therein. The second tubular member 132 is verticallyoriented with respect to the floor surface the walking aid 100 is usedon, and includes a longitudinal axis extending through a lumen of themember 132, where the longitudinal axis is generally perpendicular tothe floor surface. A second linear section 152 of the second rear lowerframe member 112 connects the lower end 120 and the upper end 130.

The front lower frame structure 104 includes a first front lower framemember 136, a second front lower frame member 138, and a front seatsupport member 140 that is curved and that couples between the first andsecond front lower frame members 136, 138. When the seat 106 of thewalking aid 100 is in the lowered position, a bottom surface of the seat106 contacts the front seat support member 140 and prevents the seat 106from rotating further. In this orientation (i.e., seat in loweredposition), the seat 106 is generally level or parallel with the floorsurface.

A lower end 142 of the first front lower frame member 136 is coupledwith a first front wheel 144 that may be locked or fixed in a particularorientation. That is, the first front wheel 144 may rotate such that thewalking aid 100 may be utilized to move forward, back, etc., but thefirst front wheel 144 may be fixed so as to not be rotatable about anaxis perpendicular to the wheel's axis of rotation. A lock 146 may bepositioned at the lower end 142 near the first front wheel 144 so as tolock the rotation of the first front wheel 144. An upper end 148 of thefirst front lower frame member 136 is pivotally coupled with a frontsection of a pair of first frame connection plates 154 at a joint 156,which may be a pin, rivet, or the like.

A lower end 158 of the second front lower frame member 138 is coupledwith a second front wheel 160 that may be locked or fixed in aparticular orientation. That is, the second front wheel 160 may rotatesuch that the walking aid 100 may be utilized to move forward, back,etc., but the second front wheel 160 may be fixed so as to not berotatable about an axis perpendicular to the wheel's axis of rotation. Alock 162 may be positioned at the lower end 158 near the second frontwheel 160 so as to lock the rotation of the second front wheel 160. Anupper end 164 of the second front lower frame member 138 is pivotallycoupled with a front section of a pair of second frame connection plates166 at a joint 168, which may be a pin, rivet, or the like.

A first folding strut 170 connects the first rear lower frame member 110and the first front lower frame member 136. The first folding strut 170includes a front strut 172 coupled with a rear strut 174 about a joint176. A second folding strut 178 connects the second rear lower framemember 112 and the second front lower frame member 138. The secondfolding strut 178 includes a front strut 180 coupled with a rear strut182 about a joint 184. In this way, when the walking aid 100 is pivotedor folded about the joints 156, 168 of the first and second frameconnection plates 154, 166, the first and second folding struts 170, 178may be permitted to collapse or pivot about the joints 176, 184 suchthat the rear lower frame structure 102 and the front lower framestructure move closer together or converge. Each of the first and secondfolding struts 170, 178 may include a stop feature such that the struts170, 178 can only pivot in one direction and are restrained frompivoting in an opposite direction (i.e.,. beyond ninety degrees).

The seat 106 is pivotally coupled with the rear seat support member 114so as to pivot between a seated, down, or lowered position (shown inFIG. 6) and a stowed, up, or raised position (shown in FIG. 11). A topsurface of the seat 106 may be padded and a bottom surface of the seat106 may be stiff or hard. A pair of rod clamps 186, seen in FIG. 11, maybe positioned on the bottom surface of the seat 106 to receive the rearseat support member 114 therethrough. In this way, the seat 106 maypivot about the rear seat support member 114 from the lowered positionto the raised position.

In the raised position, as seen in FIG. 11, the seat 106 may contact andbe restrained from further pivoting by a back support member 188 that isU-shaped. The back support member 188 includes a first end 190 and asecond end 192, where the first end is pivotally coupled with a rearsection of the first frame connection plate 154 at a joint 194, such asa pin, rivet, or the like. The second end 192 of the back support member188 is pivotally coupled with a rear section of the second frameconnection plate 166 at a joint 196, such as a pin, rivet, or the like.More particularly, the first end 190 of the back support member 188 mayfit within a sleeve 198 having a stop member that contacts the linearsection 150 and restricts the back support member 188 from rotating backtowards the rear seat support member 114. Similarly, the second end 192of the back support member may fit within a sleeve 200 having a stopmember that contacts the linear section 152 and restricts the backsupport member 188 from rotating back towards the rear seat supportmember 114.

Turning back to the rear lower frame structure 102, the linear section150 of the first rear lower frame member 110 extends through the pair offirst frame connection plates 154 between the first end 190 of the backsupport member 188 and the upper end 124 of the first rear lower framemember 110. The linear section 150 may be pivotally coupled with thepair of first frame connection plates 154 at a joint 202, such as a pin,rivet, or the like. On the other side, the linear section 152 of thesecond rear lower frame member 112 extends through the pair of secondframe connection plates 166 between the second end 192 of the backsupport member 188 and the upper end 130 of the second rear lower framemember 112. The linear section 152 may be pivotally coupled with thepair of second frame connection plates 166 at a joint 204, such as apin, rivet, or the like.

The upper frame structure 108 includes a first upper frame member 206,and a second upper frame member 208. The first upper frame member 206may be L-shaped and includes a lower cylindrical section 210 that islinear with through-holes 212 vertically spaced along the section 210.The first upper frame member 206 also includes a curved transitionsection 214 and a first forearm section 216 that is linear and generallyperpendicular to the lower cylindrical section 210. A first forearmsupport 218 is coupled to the first forearm section 216. The firstforearm support 218 includes a curved support pad 220 for contacting andsupporting the user's forearm, and a flared support member 222positioned between the curved support pad 220 and the first forearmsection 216. The flared support member 222 angles the curved support pad220 so the front end of the pad 220 is farther away from the firstforearm section 216 than a rear end of the pad 220. The angle of thecurved support pad 220 may vary depending on the height of the user ofthe walking aid 100. With the first forearm section 216 being generallylevel or parallel with the floor surface, the curved support pad 220will cause a user's arm to angle slightly upward from the elbow to thehand.

The first forearm section 216 is coupled with a first handle 242oriented generally perpendicular to the first forearm section 216.Coupled to the first handle 242 is a brake lever 244 that is linked witha brake at the first front wheel 144.

The second upper frame member 208 may also be L-shaped and includes alower cylindrical section 224 that is linear with through-holes 226vertically spaced along the section 224. The second upper frame member208 also includes a curved transition section 228 and a second forearmsection 230 that is linear and generally perpendicular to the lowercylindrical section 224. A second forearm support 232 is coupled to thesecond forearm section 230. The second forearm support 232 includes acurved support pad 234 for contacting and supporting the user's forearm,and a flared support member 236 positioned between the curved supportpad 234 and the second forearm section 230. The flared support member236 angles the curved support pad 234 so the front end of the pad 234 isfarther away from the second forearm section 230 than a rear end of thepad 234. The angle of the curved support pad 234 may vary depending onthe height of the user of the walking aid 100. With the first forearmsection 230 being generally level or parallel with the floor surface,the curved support pad 234 will cause a user's arm to angle slightlyupward from the elbow to the hand.

The second forearm section 230 is coupled with a second handle 246oriented generally perpendicular to the second forearm section 230.Coupled to the second handle 246 is a brake lever 248 that is linkedwith a brake at the second front wheel 160.

In order to adjust the height of the upper frame structure 108 relativeto the floor surface, the lower cylindrical sections 210, 224 of thefirst and second upper frame members 206, 208 may be received within thelumens of the first and second tubular member 126, 132, respectively,and first and second pins (not shown) may be inserted into coaxiallyaligned through-holes 128, 134, 212, 226 of the lower cylindricalsections 210, 224 and the first and second tubular members 126, 132,respectively. That is, the first and second upper frame members 206, 208of the upper frame structure 108 are adjustably coupled, respectively,to the first and second rear lower frame member 110, 112 of the rearlower frame structure 102 along lengths of the first and second upperframe members 206, 208. More particularly, the first and second upperframe members 206, 208 of the upper frame structure 108 and the firstand second tubular member 126, 132 define a telescoping connectionbetween each other. Adjustment of the height of the upper framestructure 108 does not move the relative fore-aft position of first andsecond forearm supports 218, 232. That is, the height adjustment of theupper frame structure 108 is accomplished in the vertical directiononly.

Reference is made to FIG. 11, which depicts the walking aid 100 with theseat 106 in an up or upward position, and the first and second upperframe members 206, 208 of the upper frame structure 108 rotated onehundred eighty degrees from a forward position or orientation to arearward position or orientation. More particularly, the first upperframe member 206 is rotated one hundred eighty degrees about thelongitudinal axis through the lumen of the first tubular member 126, andthe second upper frame member 208 is rotated one hundred eighty degreesabout the longitudinal axis through the lumen of the second tubularmember 132. In this way, the walking aid 100 may be used by a user wherethe seat 106, the front seat support member 140, and back rest 188 arepositioned in front of the user's legs, where the freely rotatable rearwheels 118, 122 are positioned, generally, beneath the first and secondhandles 242, 246. Alternatively, the walking aid may be used by a userwhere the seat 106, the front seat support member 140, and back rest 188are positioned behind the user's legs, where the fixed front wheels 144,160 are positioned, generally, beneath the first and second handles 242,246.

Stated differently, the walking aid 100 is configurable in at least twoarrangements for supporting a user in walking. In a first arrangement ofthe walking aid 100, shown in FIG. 6, the seat 106 (in either an upwardor down position) is positioned behind the user such that an areabetween and in front of the first and second upper frame members 206,208 is open. In a second arrangement of the walking aid 100, shown inFIG. 11, the seat 106 (in either an upward or down position) ispositioned in front of the user such that an area between and in frontof the first and second upper frame members 206, 208 is blocked orobstructed by the seat 106, the front seat support member 140, the backsupport member 188, and the rear seat support member 114.

Reference is made to FIG. 12, which is an isometric view of the walkingaid 100 in a folded, stowed, or stored position. In particular, thewalking aid 100 may be pivoted or folded about the joints 156, 168 ofthe first and second frame connection plates 154, 166 such that the rearlower frame structure 102 and the front lower frame structure 104 movecloser together or converge. To permit this pivoting, the first andsecond folding struts 170, 178 also collapse or pivot about theirrespective joints 176, 184. As seen in the figure, the back supportmember 188 may be pivoted about the joints 194, 196 at the rear of firstand second frame connection plates 154, 166. And, the first and secondlower cylindrical sections 210, 224 of the first and second upper framemembers 206, 208, respectively, may be removed from being receivedwithin the top openings of the first and second tubular member 126, 132of the first and second rear lower frame members 110, 112. The first andsecond lower cylindrical sections 210, 224 may then be received withinbottom openings of the first and second tubular members 126, 132 of thefirst and second rear lower frame members 110, 112, respectively. Thefirst and second upper frame members 206, 208 may be pivoted about thelongitudinal axes of the lumens of the first and second tubular members126, 132 such that the first and second handles 242, 246 are positionedadjacent each other and inward of the first and second tubular members126, 132.

In the folded position, seen in FIG. 12, the walking aid 100 may betransported by rolling the walking aid 100 on the front wheels 144, 160or carried. As seen in FIG. 12, the front wheels 144, 160 are positionedoutside of the rear wheels 118, 122 such that the front wheels 144, 160are still rotatable.

Reference is made to FIGS. 13-16, which depicts another embodiment of awalking aid 300. The walking aid 300 may be used in the same manner asthe previous described walking aids and may include the same ordifferent components. The walking aid 300 may be considered a wraparoundwalking aid because the structure of the walking aid 300 wraps aroundthe back of the user when the upper frame structure is oriented in aforward facing position. The walking aid 300 may also wrap around thefront of the user when the upper frame structure is oriented in arearward, or opposite facing, position. In the forward facing position,as shown FIGS. 1, 6, and 13A, among others, the area in front of theuser's body is open or clear from obstruction by the structure of thewalking aid 300. Conversely, in the rearward, or opposite facing,position, as shown in FIG. 13B, the area behind the user's body is openor clear from obstruction by the structure of the walking aid 300. Inthe forward facing position, the user may walk and then sit withoutturning their body relative to the walking aid 300. In the rearwardfacing position, the user may walk and then turn one hundred eightydegrees before sitting on the seat of the walking aid 300. As seen inFIG. 13B, the seat of the walking aid 300 may be in a raised position topermit additional space for the user to walk in the direction of theseat.

The walking aid 300 of FIGS. 13-16 may include a portion of or all ofthe structure from the embodiment of the walking aid 100 in FIGS. 6-12.As such a full description of the walking aid 300 will not be included.Instead, only certain features will be described. In particular, thewalking aid 300 differs from the previous walking aid only by the rollspeed control assemblies 362, 346 and the pivot mechanisms 500, 600. Assuch, all description of the previously described walking aid isincorporated into the present discussion of the walking aid 300.

As seen in FIG. 13A, among others, which shows the walking aid 300 in afirst orientation with the seat in a lowered, down, or seated positionand the walking aid 300 generally oriented behind the user, the walkingaid 300 includes a rear lower frame structure 302, a front lower framestructure 304, a seat 306, and an upper frame structure 308. The rearlower frame structure 302 may include a first rear lower frame member310, a second rear lower frame member 312, and a rear seat supportmember 314 coupled between the first and second lower frame members 310,312. A lower end 316 of the first rear lower frame member 310 isrotatably coupled with a first rear wheel 318, which may be a wheel thatfreely rotates (e.g., cator wheel), as previously described herein. Alower end 320 of the second rear lower frame member 312 is rotatablycoupled with a second rear wheel 322, which may be a wheel that freelyrotates (e.g., castor wheel), as previously described herein. An upperend 324 of the first rear lower frame member 310 is pivotally coupled toa first pivot or hinge mechanism 500 (also called a pivot and latchmechanism). The first pivot mechanism 500 includes a first cuff member502 that engages a first lower member 504 of a first upper arm assembly506. The first lower member 504 is coupled with a first upper tubularmember 326 of the first upper arm assembly 506. The first upper tubularmember 326 is vertically oriented with respect to the floor surface thewalking aid 300 is used on, and includes a longitudinal axis extendingthrough a lumen of the member 326, where the longitudinal axis isgenerally perpendicular to the floor surface.

An upper end 330 of the second rear lower frame member 312 is pivotallycoupled to a second pivot or hinge mechanism 600 (also called a pivotand latch mechanism). The second pivot mechanism 600 includes a secondcuff member 602 that engages a second lower member 604 of a second upperarm assembly 606. The second lower member 604 is coupled with a secondupper tubular member 332. The second tubular member 332 is verticallyoriented with respect to the floor surface the walking aid 300 is usedon, and includes a longitudinal axis extending through a lumen of themember 332, where the longitudinal axis is generally perpendicular tothe floor surface.

The front lower frame structure 304 includes a first front lower framemember 336, a second front lower frame member 338, and a front seatsupport member 340 that is curved and that couples between the first andsecond front lower frame members 336, 338. When the seat 306 of thewalking aid 300 is in the lowered position, a bottom surface of the seat306 contacts the front seat support member 340 and prevents the seat 306from rotating further. In this orientation (i.e., seat in loweredposition), the seat 306 is generally level or parallel with the floorsurface.

A lower end 342 of the first front lower frame member 336 is coupledwith a first front wheel 344 that may be locked or fixed in a particularorientation. That is, the first front wheel 344 may rotate such that thewalking aid 300 may be utilized to move forward, back, etc., but thefirst front wheel 344 may be fixed so as to not be rotatable about anaxis perpendicular to the wheel's axis of rotation. A roll speed controlassembly 346 may be positioned at the lower end 342 near the first frontwheel 344 so as to adjust an amount of tension or resistance of firstfront wheel 344. An upper end 348 of the first front lower frame member336 is pivotally coupled with a front section of a pair of first frameconnection plates 354 at a joint 356, which may be a pin, rivet, or thelike.

A lower end 358 of the second front lower frame member 338 is coupledwith a second front wheel 360 that may be locked or fixed in aparticular orientation. That is, the second front wheel 360 may rotatesuch that the walking aid 300 may be utilized to move forward, back,etc., but the second front wheel 360 may be fixed so as to not berotatable about an axis perpendicular to the wheel's axis of rotation. Aroll speed control assembly 362 may be positioned at the lower end 358near the second front wheel 360 so as to adjust an amount of tension orresistance of the second front wheel 360. An upper end 364 of the secondfront lower frame member 338 is pivotally coupled with a front sectionof a pair of second frame connection plates 366 at a joint 368, whichmay be a pin, rivet, or the like.

FIG. 13B depicts the walking aid 300 in a second orientation. In thisorientation, the walking aid 300 includes all of the previouslydescribed parts. The differences from the walking aid 300 in the firstorientation is that the first upper frame member 406, and a second upperframe member 408 are rotated one hundred eighty degrees within the firstand second tubular members 326, 332, and the seat 306 is pivotedupwards.

Reference is made to FIGS. 14A-14E, which depict various views of thesecond front lower frame member 338, second wheel 360, and the secondroll speed control assembly 362. The components for the first roll speedcontrol assembly 346 may be the same so the discussion will not beduplicated for it. As seen in the figures, the roll speed controlassembly 362 is coupled to a tab 650 with a through-bore (e.g.,threaded) and that is coupled (e.g., welded) to a front aspect of thesecond front lower frame member 338. The roll speed control assembly 362may include a thumb-nut 652 and an internal toothed lock washer 658 onone side of the tab 650 (opposite the wheel side of the tab 650). Thethumb-nut 652 is threaded onto a thumb-screw 654 with a felt pad 656positioned at the head of the thumb-screw. The head of the thumb-screw654 and felt pad 656 may be positioned on the wheel-side of the tab 650.The felt pad 656 may contact an inner portion of the second wheel 360with increasing force (increasing resistance for the rotation of thesecond wheel 360) when the thumb-nut 652 is tightened. Conversely, thefelt pad 656 may decrease its force against the wheel (and thereforedecrease the resistance of the rotation of the second wheel 360) whenthe thumb-nut 652 is loosened.

Turning back to the rear lower frame structure 302, as seen in FIGS. 13Aand 13B, the first and second rear lower frame member 310, 312 arecoupled together below the rear seat support member 314 via a lowersupport member 550. The lower support member 550 may be curved at theconnection ends, and may extend towards the front lower frame structure304. The lower support member 550 may engage an accessory of the walkingaid 300 such as, for example, a basket that may be also coupled to therear seat support member 314.

The first rear lower frame member 310 extends through the pair of firstframe connection plates 354 between the first end 390 of the backsupport member 388 and the upper end 324 of the first rear lower framemember 310. The back support member 388 may be pivotally coupled withthe pair of first frame connection plates 354 at a joint 394, such as apin, rivet, or the like. On the other side, the second rear lower framemember 312 extends through the pair of second frame connection plates366 between the second end 392 of the back support member 388 and theupper end 330 of the second rear lower frame member 312. The backsupport member 388 may be pivotally coupled with the pair of secondframe connection plates 366 at a joint 396, such as a pin, rivet, or thelike.

The upper frame structure 308 includes a first upper frame member 406,and a second upper frame member 408. The first upper frame member 406may be L-shaped and includes a lower cylindrical section 410 that islinear with through-holes 412 vertically spaced along the section 410.The first upper frame member 406 also includes a curved transitionsection 414 and a first forearm section 416 that is linear and generallyperpendicular to the lower cylindrical section 410. A first forearmsupport 418 is coupled to the first forearm section 416. The firstforearm support 418 includes a curved support pad 420 for contacting andsupporting the user's forearm, and a flared support member 422positioned between the curved support pad 420 and the first forearmsection 416. The flared support member 422 angles the curved support pad420 so the front end of the pad 420 is farther away from the firstforearm section 416 than a rear end of the pad 420. The angle of thecurved support pad 420 may vary depending on the height of the user ofthe walking aid 300. With the first forearm section 416 being generallylevel or parallel with the floor surface, the curved support pad 420will cause a user's arm to angle slightly upward from the elbow to thehand.

The first forearm section 416 is coupled with a first handle 442oriented generally perpendicular to the first forearm section 416.Coupled to the first handle 442 is a brake lever 444 that is linked witha brake at the first front wheel 344.

The second upper frame member 408 may also be L-shaped and includes alower cylindrical section 424 that is linear with through-holes 426vertically spaced along the section 424. The second upper frame member408 also includes a curved transition section 428 and a second forearmsection 430 that is linear and generally perpendicular to the lowercylindrical section 424. A second forearm support 432 is coupled to thesecond forearm section 430. The second forearm support 432 includes acurved support pad 434 for contacting and supporting the user's forearm,and a flared support member 436 positioned between the curved supportpad 434 and the second forearm section 430. The flared support member436 angles the curved support pad 434 so the front end of the pad 434 isfarther away from the second forearm section 430 than a rear end of thepad 434. The angle of the curved support pad 434 may vary depending onthe height of the user of the walking aid 300. With the first forearmsection 430 being generally level or parallel with the floor surface,the curved support pad 434 will cause a user's arm to angle slightlyupward from the elbow to the hand.

The second forearm section 430 is coupled with a second handle 446oriented generally perpendicular to the second forearm section 430.Coupled to the second handle 446 is a brake lever 448 that is linkedwith a brake at the second front wheel 360.

In order to adjust the height of the upper frame structure 308 relativeto the floor surface, the lower cylindrical sections 410, 424 of thefirst and second upper frame members 406, 408 may be received within thelumens of the first and second tubular member 326, 332, respectively,and first and second pins 552, 554 may be inserted into coaxiallyaligned through-holes of the lower cylindrical sections 410, 424 and thefirst and second tubular members 326, 332, respectively. That is, thefirst and second upper frame members 406, 408 of the upper framestructure 308 are adjustably coupled, respectively, to the first andsecond rear lower frame member 310, 312 of the rear lower framestructure 302 along lengths of the first and second upper frame members406, 408. More particularly, the first and second upper frame members406, 408 of the upper frame structure 308 and the first and secondtubular member 326, 332 define a telescoping connection between eachother. Adjustment of the height of the upper frame structure 308 doesnot move the relative fore-aft position of first and second forearmsupports 418, 432. That is, the height adjustment of the upper framestructure 308 is accomplished in the vertical direction only.

Reference is made to the pivot mechanisms 500, 600 of FIGS. 15A-15J. Andwhile FIGS. 15A-15J depict the first pivot mechanism 500, the discussionis equally applicable to the second pivot mechanism. The pivotmechanisms 500, 600 include first and second cuff members 502, 602 thatengage the first and second lower members 504, 604 of the first andsecond upper arm assemblies 506, 606. The first and second cuff members502, 602 may be referred to as grips or grip members as they are to begripped by the user when actuating the pivot mechanism.

The first lower member 504 is coupled with the first upper tubularmember 326 of the first upper arm assembly 506. And the second lowermember 604 is coupled with the second upper tubular member 332 of thesecond upper arm assembly 606. As seen in the exploded view of FIG. 15B,the first and second cuff members 502, 602 each include an elongatedslot 508, 608, an upper through-bore 510, 610, and a lower through-bore512, 612, where the elongated slot 508, 608 is positioned between theupper and lower through-bores. As seen in FIG. 15A and 15B, amongothers, the pivot mechanisms 500, 600 each include a pin 514, 614 (e.g.,a steel pin) that also includes an elongated slot 516, 616, an upperthreaded through-bore 518, 618, and a lower threaded through-bore 520,620. The pins 514, 614 are coupled in a fixed position to theirrespective cuff member 502, 602 via fasteners (e.g., bolts, screws) 522,622 that extend through the upper and lower through-bores 510, 610, 512,612 of the cuff members 502, 602 and threadably engage the upper andlower though-bores 518, 618, 520, 620 of the pins 514, 614. Springs 524,624 are positioned on an upper end of the pins 514, 614. A lower end ofeach of the pins 514, 614 is chamfered. The springs 524, 624 and thepins 514, 614 are fitted within the lumens or openings of the first andsecond lower members 504, 604. The springs 524, 624 may be restrainedfrom movement via a pin 532, 632, as seen in FIG. 15B, extending acrossthe lumens.

The pivot mechanism 500, 600 further include an elongated threadedmember 526, 626 extending through the elongated slots 508, 608, 516, 616of the cuff members 502, 602 and the pins 514, 614, as seen in FIG. 15C.The threaded end of the elongated threaded members 526, 626 extendthrough the upper end 330 of the second rear lower frame member 312, andthe upper end 324 of the first rear lower frame member 310,respectively. The threaded ends of the elongated threaded members 526,626 are threaded onto threaded end caps 528, 628. The first and secondupper arm assemblies 506, 606 may pivot about the elongated threadedmembers 526, 626.

As seen in FIG. 15D, among others, the upper ends 330, 324 of the secondand first rear lower frame members 312, 310 each include a tubular pinreceptacle 530, 630 coupled thereto, respectively. The tubular pinreceptacles 530, 630 may receive the chamfered lower ends of the pins514, 614 therein to lock the first and second upper arm assemblies 506,606 in an upright position (i.e., suitable for bearing weight of a user)relative to the first and second lower frame members 310, 312.

The springs 524, 624 may bias the pins 514, 614 in a downward trajectorysuch that a counteracting force (i.e., from the user) must be applied tothe first and second cuff members 502, 602 in an upward direction (suchas seen in FIG. 15G) till the chamfered lower end of the pins 514, 614exits the tubular pin receptacles 530, 630, in which case the first andsecond upper arm assemblies 506, 606 are permitted to rotate about theelongated threaded members 526, 626, as seen in FIG. 15D.

Reference is made to FIG. 16, which are various views of the walking aid300 in a folded, stowed, or stored position. In particular, the walkingaid 300 may be pivoted or folded about the joints 356, 368 of the firstand second frame connection plates 354, 366 such that the rear lowerframe structure 302 and the front lower frame structure 304 move closertogether or converge. To permit this pivoting, the first and secondfolding struts 370 (378 not seen in FIG. 16) also collapse or pivotabout their respective joints 376 (384 not seen in FIG. 16). As seen inthe figure, the back support member 388 may be pivoted about the joints394, 396 at the rear of first and second frame connection plates 354,366. Additionally, the pivot mechanisms 500, 600 may be in a disengagedstate such that the pins 514, 614 (not seen in FIG. 16) are disengagedwith or not within the tubular pin receptacles 530, 630, permitting thefirst and second upper arm assemblies 506, 606 to pivot relative to therear lower frame structure 302. Additionally, as seen in FIG. 16, thefirst upper frame member 406, and the second upper frame member 408 arerotated inward, relative to each other.

In the folded position, seen in FIG. 16, the walking aid 300 may betransported by rolling the walking aid 300 on the front wheels 344, 360or carried. As seen in the figures, the front wheels 344, 360 arepositioned outside of the rear wheels 318, 322 such that the frontwheels 344, 360 are still rotatable.

Persons of ordinary skill in the art may appreciate that numerous designconfigurations may be possible to enjoy the functional benefits of theinventive systems. Thus, given the wide variety of configurations andarrangements of embodiments of the present invention the scope of theinvention is reflected by the breadth of the claims below rather thannarrowed by the embodiments described above. Further, reference to“first” and “second” may also be considered “right” and “left” or viceversa.

What is claimed is:
 1. A walking aid that assists a user in walking in an upright position, the user having elbows, hands, and first and second forearms, the walking aid comprising: a rear lower frame structure comprising first and second rear lower frame members; a front lower frame structure comprising first and second front lower frame members, the first front lower frame member pivotally coupled to the first rear lower frame member, the second front lower frame member pivotally coupled to the second rear lower frame member; a first front wheel coupled to the first front lower frame member; a second front wheel coupled to the second front lower frame member; a first rear wheel coupled to the first rear lower frame member; a second rear wheel coupled to the second rear lower frame member; an upper frame structure comprising a first upper frame member having a first telescoping height adjustment, a second upper frame member having a second telescoping height adjustment, a first forearm support coupled to the first upper frame member, and a second forearm support coupled to the second upper frame member; a first pivot and latch mechanism pivotally coupling the first upper frame member and the first rear lower frame member together; and a second pivot and latch mechanism pivotally coupling the second upper frame member and the second rear lower frame member together.
 2. The walking aid of claim 1, further comprising a seat operably coupled to and pivotal relative to the rear lower frame structure so as to be pivotally positioned in a lowered position or a raised position.
 3. The walking aid of claim 2, further comprising a seat rest coupled between the first and second front lower frame members, the seat rest supporting the seat when the seat is in the lowered position.
 4. The walking aid of claim 1, wherein the upper frame structure further comprises first and second brakes, the first brake joined with the first upper frame member near the first handle, the second brake joined with the second upper frame member near the second handle.
 5. The walking aid of claim 1, further comprising a first handle coupled with the first upper frame member, and a second handle coupled with the second upper frame member.
 6. The walking aid of claim 1, wherein the first forearm support includes a first forearm support surface for supporting a first forearm of the user, and the second forearm support includes a second forearm support surface for supporting a second forearm of the user.
 7. The walking aid of claim 6, wherein the first and second forearm support surfaces are non-parallel with a horizontal plane so as to angle the users first and second forearms, respectively, upwards from the elbows to the hands.
 8. The walking aid of claim 1, further comprising a back rest coupled to the rear lower frame structure and extending between the first and second rear lower frame members.
 9. The walking aid of claim 1, further comprising a first roll speed control assembly coupled to the first front lower frame member and including a first member configured to adjustably contact the first front wheel to control a speed of the first front wheel, and a second roll speed control assembly coupled to the second front lower frame member and including a second member configured to adjustably contact the second front wheel to control a speed of the second front wheel.
 10. The walking aid of claim 9, wherein the first member is a first threaded member having a first felt pad configured to contact the first front wheel, and the second member is a second threaded member having a second felt pad configured to contact the second front wheel.
 11. The walking aid of claim 1, wherein the first pivot and latch mechanism comprises a first cuff member adjustably coupled to the first upper frame member, a first pin member, a first pivot pin, and a first spring housed within the first upper frame member, and wherein the first rear lower frame member comprises a first pin receptacle for receiving the first pin therein.
 12. The walking aid of claim 11, wherein the second pivot and latch mechanism comprises a second cuff member adjustably coupled to the second upper frame member, a second pin member, a second pivot pin, and a second spring housed within the second upper frame member, and wherein the second rear lower frame member comprises a second pin receptacle for receiving the second pin therein.
 13. The walking aid of claim 12, wherein movement of the first cuff member causes the first pin to be removed from within the first pin receptacle so as to permit the first upper frame member to be pivoted relative to the first rear lower frame member about the first pivot pin, and wherein movement of the second cuff member causes the second pin to be removed from within the second pin receptacle so as to permit the second upper frame member to be pivoted relative to the second rear lower frame member about the second pivot pin.
 14. A walking aid that assists a user in walking in an upright position, the user having elbows, hands, and first and second forearms, the walking aid comprising: a rear lower frame structure operably coupled to a first rear wheel and a second rear wheel; a front lower frame structure operably coupled to a first front wheel and a second front wheel, the rear lower frame structure pivotally coupled to the front lower frame structure; and an upper frame structure comprising a first upper frame member received within and rotatable within a first tubular member of the upper frame structure, a second upper frame member received within and rotatable within a second tubular member of the upper frame structure, a first forearm support coupled to the first upper frame member, and a second forearm support coupled to the second upper frame member, wherein the first and second upper frame members are positionable and securable in a plurality of rotatable orientations within the first and second tubular members, respectively, to facilitate the user walking with the rear lower frame structure behind and in front of the user.
 15. The walking aid of claim 14, wherein the rear lower frame structure comprises first and second rear lower frame members.
 16. The walking aid of claim 14, wherein the front lower frame structure comprises first and second front lower frame members, the first front lower frame member pivotally coupled to the first rear lower frame member, the second front lower frame member pivotally coupled to the second rear lower frame member.
 17. The walking aid of claim 14, wherein the first upper frame member comprises a first telescoping height adjustment, and the second upper frame member comprises a second telescoping height adjustment.
 18. The walking aid of claim 14, wherein the first and second forearms supports each include a forearm support surface for contacting the first and second forearms of the user, respectively, the first and second forearm supports being angled non-parallel with a horizontal plane.
 19. The walking aid of claim 14, wherein the first and second tubular members are angled normal to a horizontal plane.
 20. The walking aid of claim 14, wherein the plurality of rotatable orientations comprises a first and a second orientation, wherein a difference between the first orientation and the second orientation is the first upper frame member being rotated within the first tubular member one hundred eighty degrees, and the second upper frame member being rotated within the second tubular member one hundred eighty degrees. 